The Dorothy L Johnston Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Dorothy L Johnston Foundation is a private foundation in Pasadena, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $417,500 in 8 grants; the typical grant was $30,000 and the largest $130,000. It only gives to organizations it selects itself and does not accept unsolicited applications.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2025.
- Grants paid, 2025$417,500
- Number of grants8
- Typical grant$30,000
- Largest grant$130,000
- Assets$10.4 million
- New grantees13%
Giving in 2025 was up from $302,370 the year before.
13% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, so most of its money goes to organizations it already funds.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $406,000 | 13 | $9.1 million |
| 2024 | $302,370 | 13 | $9.8 million |
| 2025 | $417,500 | 8 | $10.4 million |
How to apply
The Dorothy L Johnston Foundation says in its IRS filing that it only makes contributions to preselected organizations, so unsolicited applications are unlikely to be considered. Organizations it funds are usually invited.
What The Dorothy L Johnston Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 8 | $417,500 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Pasadena Symphony Orchestra | Provide orchestral performances & benefit the community | $130,000 |
| Descanso Gardens | To fund the inspiration, education and experience of the gardens and the natural world | $107,500 |
| Los Angeles Philharmonic Association | Provide musical performances to the community | $75,000 |
| USC Karl Swaidan Endowed Scholarship | To support student-athlete scholarships, programming and operations | $30,000 |
| USC School of Dramatic Art | Foster the talents of artist-scholars who are willing to imagine the future of the entertainment industry and bring it to life | $30,000 |
| Cancer Support Community Greater SGV | Support program | $15,000 |
| Loren L Zachary Scty for the Pref Arts | To futhur the training of individuals in the art of operatic singing | $15,000 |
| Parson's Nose Productions | Introduce the classics to audiences of all ages | $15,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Karl Swaidan
Questions people ask
Does The Dorothy L Johnston Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Dorothy L Johnston Foundation give?
$417,500 in tax year 2025, across 8 grants, with a typical grant of $30,000.
Who runs The Dorothy L Johnston Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Karl Swaidan (Trustee).
What does The Dorothy L Johnston Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly arts and culture and education.